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Dehydration

Pediatric Dehydration Treatment

When your child is sick and becoming dehydrated, knowing what to do and where to take them for help is essential. At Prestige Emergency Room, we want you to be equipped with the knowledge you need to prevent and manage dehydration.

Our caring, experienced team of providers is here when you need us, ready to diagnose and treat dehydration in infants and children of all ages.

What is Pediatric Dehydration

Dehydration in a child can have several causes and simply refers to a loss of essential water in their body. It is vital to catch pediatric dehydration early, as it can lead to serious consequences. Fortunately, there are some common symptoms you can watch for.

Symptoms of Dehydration in Children

Pediatric dehydration symptoms include:

  • Thirst.
  • Dry skin.
  • Fatigue.
  • A fever.
  • Decreased urination.

When to Take Children to the ER for Dehydration

Infants are especially prone to ill effects from dehydration. The risks of dehydration in a baby can include electrolyte imbalances, seizures, coma, shock, organ failure, or even death. You should take a baby to the emergency room for dehydration treatment if:

  • You notice signs and symptoms of dehydration.
  • Your baby’s temperature is over 102°F, or they have an ongoing fever at any level.
  • Your baby’s fontanel (the soft spot on their head) is sunken.
  • Your baby is having ongoing vomiting or diarrhea.
  • Your baby is crying without tears.
  • Your baby has a dry mouth.
  • Your baby’s diapers haven’t been wet for over three hours.
  • Your baby is lethargic, sleepy, or less responsive.

You should take an older child to the ER for dehydration if:

  • You notice deep, rapid breathing.
  • Their eyes are sunken.
  • They have very dark urine or minimal urine.
  • Their tongue and lips are dry.
  • They are lethargic or confused.

If you are wondering whether your child’s dehydration merits an ER visit, don’t hesitate to come on in. Prestige ER providers can assess your child and get the appropriate treatment started to relieve dehydration and prevent it from worsening.

Causes of Pediatric Dehydration

Common causes of dehydration in infants and children include:

  • Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea from the stomach bug (like rotavirus), food poisoning, or another cause.
  • Persistent fever.
  • Hot weather.
  • Sweating from exercise.

Pediatric Dehydration Treatment in the ER

Dehydration in infants and children is serious. They often cannot express that they are dehydrated, and their body fluid can quickly become depleted. Do not hesitate to take your child to the emergency room if you think they are becoming dehydrated, or you are noticing the symptoms of dehydration.

In the ER, your child’s provider will discuss your child’s health history, allergies, medications, and symptoms. Your child’s provider may order blood tests to help diagnose the underlying problem and choose the best treatment. If they are dehydrated, your child may need IV therapy to restore essential body fluids and correct dangerous electrolyte imbalances.

These services and many more are available onsite at Prestige Emergency Room. Our experienced providers can provide comprehensive care for pediatric dehydration and many other pediatric emergencies.

Prevention and Tips to Avoid Dehydration in Children

Pushing fluids is the key to preventing dehydration in children. If they are sick, running a fever, or having ongoing vomiting and diarrhea, ensure your child takes in as much liquid as possible.

Water can help, but fluids containing electrolytes are important, as these can be lost quickly with ongoing vomiting or diarrhea. Pedialyte, Gatorade, broth, Jello, diluted juice, or popsicles can all be helpful. Be careful with sugary liquids, as they can worsen diarrhea. Avoid caffeinated drinks.

For infants, breast milk and formula contain both water and electrolytes. If your baby is not drinking these, try giving them an oral rehydration solution, which is available at a pharmacy.

For children and infants, don’t hesitate to seek care in the ER for ongoing vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration concerns.

Get Immediate Pediatric Dehydration Treatment at Prestige Emergency Room

You can rest assured that our experienced providers can provide fast, compassionate care for dehydration emergencies in children of all ages. Emergencies don’t wait, and neither should your child.

Visit any of our San Antonio locations for expert pediatric dehydration treatment and many other emergency services.